Independent bottler Compass Box has released a new limited edition blended malt Scotch whisky, called Magic Cask.
In 2016, Compass Box re-racked its one-year-old malt spirit into first-fill oloroso Sherry-seasoned casks. Three years later, Compass Box said one cask in particular ‘proved so compelling’ that it led to further experimentation.
Compass Box founder and whiskymaker John Glaser said: “Sometimes just one cask in a blend of many can provide the touch of magic that allows the whole arrangement to sing.
“We first took advantage of this phenomenon in 2006 when an experimental whisky, finished in an ex-Madeira barrique, led to the limited edition bottling we called Magic Cask.
“We’re delighted to be able to share with you again the magical influence one exceptional cask – a Sherry-seasoned cask in this case – can have on a recipe.”
The 46% ABV whisky has notes of marmalade and chai tea spices on the nose. The palate offers ‘ripe golden dessert apples’ and hints of toffee and cocoa powder.
Whiskymaker James Saxon added: “We have had samples of whisky from the lost Imperial Distillery in our blending room for some time. Aged in first-fill Bourbon barrels, the spirit is brimming with fruit and vanilla notes and exhibits a lovely tongue-clinging texture.
“However, finding the right project and accompaniments to this parcel of single malt proved a challenge. Then, last year, we discovered cask #2 amongst samples drawn from our 2016 Sherry cask maturation experiment. Full to the brim with cherry fruit and cedar spice character, it was a remarkably precocious whisky.
“When combined with the parcel from the lost distillery, it created an exceptionally rich and layered blended malt Scotch whisky.”
Magic Cask whisky is recommended served neat as a digestif. It is available to buy for RRP £145 (US$193) per 700ml bottle or US$175 per 750ml. There are only 5,538 bottles available globally.
The expression is available to buy in the UK this month and globally from January 2021.
Last month, Compass Box launched the Hedonism Felicitas whisky to celebrate its 20th anniversary this year. The bottler recently appointed Proof Drinks as its UK distributor.